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In the aftermath of the 3/11 Tohoku disaster, children were especially susceptible to Post Traumatic Stress Disorder issues. The Niko Niko Taishi Smile Ambassadors program provides care and support throughout the affected region. We reach out to children, teachers, care givers, families and communities with dynamic, highly interactive and therapeutic programs.

Kids of all ages need to process and let go of their stress, frustrations and grief in a safe and fun environment. It is commonly known that “laughter is the best medicine”. It boosts the immune system, increases body oxygen levels and releases endorphins and serotonin in the brain. Our shows and workshops promote healing by sharing joy, stimulating imagination and building confidence and self respect. In the 2 1/2 years following the Tohoku disaster, we have visited 140 locations and interacted with over 9,500 affected children.

The goal of our ongoing program is to continue to offer smiles, laughter and love to the children, teachers and communities we’ve reached previously; to train caregivers and parents how to recognize PTSD issues; to be ready to mobilize and act in the case of any future traumatic events; and to help other populations in need at orphanages, hospitals and women’s shelters.

It is very important to stress that I, Guy Totaro / Niko Niko Taishi – The Smile Ambassadors Program are not trained or certified doctors, psychologists or therapists. References to PTSD or any therapy on the Niko Niko Taishi website, Facebook page or in print are based on advice given by specialists in the field from outside of Japan.

As of April 2012, the Niko Niko Taishi Program has been under the auspices of GAETANO Company. All donations and or support goes through GAETANO Company.